Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite, has revealed its upcoming first update for 2026, set to launch on various platforms including PlayStation 5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and mobile devices.
This long-awaited update will bring numerous adjustments to gameplay mechanics along with the introduction of fresh skins and items inspired by the popular animated show, South Park.
Among the notable features of this update is the addition of five-player Squads for Battle Royale, expected to be available until early February.
Scheduled for release on January 9, Fortnite update 39.20 has been officially confirmed by Epic Games. Following the announcement, a maintenance period will commence at 9am GMT UK time, translating to 1am PDT / 4am EDT for US players and 10am CET for European users.
Epic Games shared the news via an official post on X, stating, “Round up your Quint and lock in! Downtime for v39.20 begins at 4 AM ET (09:00 UTC). Matchmaking will be disabled 30 minutes prior.”
Players are advised to log in before 8:30am GMT to ensure they can play one final game before the downtime. The downtime period, as per the Epic Games server status page, is set for two hours, with servers expected to be back online by 11am GMT UK time, 3am PDT, 6am EDT, and 12pm CET.
The highlight of the update is the addition of South Park-themed skins and items, which will become accessible once the downtime concludes. A bundle featuring five iconic South Park characters, including Stan, Cartman, Butters, Kenny, and Kyle, will be available in the in-game item shop.
Additionally, Epic Games will offer free South Park items through a mini Battle Pass, featuring exclusive unlocks like the Backpack of CRED Back Bling, Terrance and Phillip Pickaxe, and Cheesy Poofs Rocketship Emote. Completing the Battle Pass before February 5 will grant players the Imaginationland Airship Glider.
Furthermore, players can expect more South Park-related content, including unique items like the Stick of Truth and Cheesy Poofs, each with distinctive in-game effects. Kenny’s Respawn Token will also be introduced, automatically reviving eliminated players.
Gamers will have the opportunity to explore Cartmanland, a themed area within the game, showcasing various attractions like CHAOS BLAST, Voyage to the Center of the Planet, and Pi Pi’s Lazy River, inspired by the show’s fictional locations.
Apart from the South Park collaboration, Epic Games will introduce a new limited-time mode for five-player squads, Battle Pass Super Styles, and potential end-of-season content.
In terms of fixes, the update addresses issues such as the Magnetic Steps Glider texture glitch and gameplay bugs affecting movement, rebooting, self-revive devices, and map visuals.
Players can anticipate an exciting and content-packed update with the arrival of Fortnite 39.20, offering a blend of new features, cosmetics, and gameplay enhancements for a refreshed gaming experience.